Souris Valley United Way will host a Backpack Buddies Food Drive on Friday, Aug. 29, from 4-6 p.m. at Cash Wise Foods in Minot.

The Backpack Buddies program currently serves more than 530 children across all 10 elementary schools and two middle schools in Minot, providing weekend meals and snacks to students who otherwise might not have enough to eat at home. Every week, students discreetly receive a bag filled with nutritious, child-friendly, self-serve food designed to fit in a backpack and last through the weekend.

“Research shows hungry children struggle in school and beyond. They experience poorer health, higher rates of behavioral issues and are less prepared to learn,” said Christy Miller, executive director of Souris Valley United Way, in a news release.”Backpack Buddies is a simple, effective way to close that gap.”

As part of the food drive, a highlight will take place around 4:50 p.m. when Souris Valley United Way Campaign Co-Chair Braden Lindquist will engage in a 60-second shopping spree, racing through the aisles to fill a cart with as many needed items as possible. Ackerman-Estvold has pledged to match the value of his cart up to $750, doubling the impact for local children.

Backpack Buddies is funded entirely through local donations and community food drives.